On CTVReginaMorningLive, where I’m the resident Sommelier, we talked about the upcoming 2018 running of the Kentucky Derby and the happy coincidence that it lands on Saturday May 5 … the same day as Cinco de Mayo!
Cocktails enthusiasts around the world are concocting a variety of beverages to honour that alignment.
Here’s our contribution with a Mint Julep Mash-Up that combines Bourbon, Tequila, Chocolate Bitters, Lime and Mint leaves:
Mint Julip Mash-Up
2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
1 oz Patrol Silver Tequila
Chocolate Bitters
1 dozen Mint Leaves
2 Key Limes – sliced
Teaspoon of Brown Sugar
Splash of Water
Ice
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves to release the oils.
Slice 2 Key Limes – add them to the mint leaves & muddle.
Using a dropper, add 3-10 drops of Chocolate Bitters (suited to your taste).
Add Brown Sugar … or for a lighter sweetness, an ounce of Simple Syrup.
Pour in a splash a water, give it a stir and filter it into a glass filled with ice & garnished with mint leaves.
You can also add a caramelized lime slice to the garnish.
To caramelize the lime, drop a pinch of brown sugar on top of the slice and give it a quick blast from a kitchen torch.
Personally, I use a torch-style cigar lighter as I prefer the size and the flame output.
The Mint Julep Mash-Up is a an amazingly smooth, refreshing beverage with wonderful aromas of chocolate, fresh mint, caramel and vanilla.
If you’re in Regina SK, you can find Ms. Better’s Bitters /Chocolate at Blush Beauty Bar.
Good quality torch lighters are available at numerous locations … I got mine from Jade Smoker’s Corner in the Value Mall.
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